Manufacturing method and injection molding system

ABSTRACT

A method including a first step of performing clamping of a mold, injection and dwelling in an injection molding machine, a second step of performing a conveyance and a cooling of the mold outside of the machine, and a third step of performing a conveyance of the mold into the machine, an opening of the mold and an ejection of a molded part in the machine. The second step is performed for a first mold, the third step and the next first step are performed for a second mold. The first mold is conveyed by a first conveyance apparatus which is arranged on one lateral side of the machine. The second mold is conveyed by a second conveyance apparatus which is arranged on the other lateral side and is independently driven from the first conveyance apparatus.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION Field of the Invention

The present invention relates to injection molding.

Description of the Related Art

In manufacturing of molded parts by an injection molding machine, aninjection process of filling a resin into a mold after clamping, adwelling process of pressing the resin into the mold at a high pressurein order to compensate for a volume decrease due to solidification ofthe resin, a cooling process of keeping the molded part in the molduntil the resin is solidified, and an ejecting process of ejecting themolded part from the mold are performed repeatedly.

In this type of molding method, a method that uses two molds with oneinjection molding machine in order to enhance productivity is proposed.For example, Japanese patent publication No. H7-119012 discloses asystem in which molded part ejecting apparatuses are arranged on bothsides of an injection molding machine. In this system, in the injectionmolding machine, an injection process and a dwelling process can beperformed on one mold, and a cooling process and an ejecting process canbe performed by the ejecting apparatus outside of the injection moldingmachine on the other mold. So, a molding operation proceeds whilealternating the two molds between the injection molding machine and theejecting apparatus.

Generally, a mold is manufactured with a metal such as a steel material,and is a heavy object whose weight reaches from several kilograms toseveral tons. Also, for a mold, to manufacture a molded part without aproblem such as a burr and whose dimensional precision is high, moldparts are manufactured at high dimensional precision, and combined, andtherefore sufficient precision is required in a mold opening/closingmechanism. Accordingly, the opening/closing mechanism is oftenexpensive.

In the system of Japanese patent publication No. H7-119012, because themolded part is ejected outside of the injection molding machine, it isnecessary to provide a mold opening/closing mechanism for each ejectingapparatus. Also, it is necessary to provide a molded part ejectingmechanism for each ejecting apparatus. Accordingly, a plurality of moldopening/closing mechanisms and molded part ejecting mechanisms arenecessary, and the cost of the system as a whole is expensive.

Also, while the system of Japanese patent publication No. H7-119012 issomething that can enhance productivity compared to normal molding byexecuting cooling processing dividing between inside and outside of theinjection molding machine, there is room for further improvement. Forexample, if the times for processes inside and outside of the injectionmolding machine are respectively assigned to be half that of the overallmolding process, productivity will be maximized. However, in the systemof Japanese patent publication No. H7-119012, because a cooling processand an ejecting process are performed outside of the injection moldingmachine, the processes outside of the injection molding machine tend totake a longer time than the processes in the injection molding machine,and there are cases in which a wait time of the injection moldingmachine becomes long. As a result, improvement of productivity on thewhole is limited.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

The present invention provides a technique for improving productivitywhile suppressing a manufacturing apparatus cost increase.

According to an aspect of the present invention, there is provided amethod of manufacturing a molded part by one injection molding machinewhile alternating two molds, the method comprising: a first step ofperforming clamping of a mold, injection and dwelling in the injectionmolding machine; a second step of, after the first step, performing aconveyance of the mold outside of the injection molding machine and acooling of the mold outside of the injection molding machine; and athird step of, after the second step, performing a conveyance of themold into the injection molding machine, an opening of the mold and anejection of a molded part in the injection molding machine, wherein thefirst to third steps are repeatedly performed, while the second step isperformed for a first mold, the third step and the next first step areperformed for a second mold, the first mold is conveyed by a firstconveyance apparatus which is arranged on one lateral side of theinjection molding machine, and the second mold is conveyed by a secondconveyance apparatus which is arranged on the other lateral side of theinjection molding machine and is independently driven from the firstconveyance apparatus.

Further features of the present invention will become apparent from thefollowing description of exemplary embodiments (with reference to theattached drawings).

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

FIG. 1 is a plan view of an injection molding system according to anembodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 2 is a side view of an injection molding machine.

FIG. 3 is an end view of a fixed platen.

FIG. 4 is a partial perspective view of the injection molding system.

FIG. 5 is a flowchart for describing an example of processing of acontrol apparatus.

FIG. 6 is an explanatory view for describing an example of operation ofthe injection molding system.

FIG. 7 is an explanatory view for describing an example of operation ofthe injection molding system.

FIG. 8 is an explanatory view for describing an example of operation ofthe injection molding system.

FIG. 9 is an explanatory view for describing an example of operation ofthe injection molding system.

FIG. 10 is an explanatory view for describing an example of operation ofthe injection molding system.

FIG. 11 is an explanatory view for describing an example of operation ofthe injection molding system.

FIG. 12 is an explanatory view of a chuck plate of another example.

FIG. 13 is an explanatory view for describing an example of a balancermechanism.

DESCRIPTION OF THE EMBODIMENTS First Embodiment

With reference to the drawings, an injection molding system according toan embodiment of the present invention will be explained. Note that thearrow symbols X and Y in each figure indicate horizontal directions thatare orthogonal to each other, and the arrow symbol Z indicates avertical (upright) direction.

<System Overview>

FIG. 1 is a plan view of an injection molding system 1 according to anembodiment of the present invention. The injection molding system 1 is asystem including a horizontal type injection molding machine 2,conveying machines 3A and 3B, and a control apparatus 4, and that is formanufacturing a molded part while alternating a plurality of molds bythe conveying machines 3A and 3B for the one injection molding machine2. In the embodiment, two molds 100A and 100B are used. There are caseswhere the molds 100A and 100B are referred to collectively as the molds100.

The molds 100 are a pair of a fixed mold 101 and a movable mold 102which is opened/closed in relation to the fixed mold 101. The moldedpart is molded by injecting a molten resin into a cavity formed betweenthe fixed mold 101 and the movable mold 102. Clamping plates 101 a and102 a are respectively fixed to the fixed mold 101 and the movable mold102. The clamping plates 101 a and 102 a are used to lock the molds 100to a molding operation position 11 (mold clamping position) of theinjection molding machine.

For the molds 100, a self-closing unit 103 for maintaining a closedstate between the fixed mold 101 and the movable mold 102 is arranged.By arranging the self-closing unit 103, it is possible to prevent themolds 100 opening after unloading the molds 100 from the injectionmolding machine 2. In a case of the embodiment, the self-closing unit103 maintains the molds 100 in a closed state using a magnetic force.The self-closing unit 103 is arranged at a plurality of locations alongopposing surfaces of the fixed mold 101 and the movable mold 102. Theself-closing unit 103, in the embodiment, is a combination of an elementon the side of the fixed mold 101, and an element on the side of themovable mold 102. The combination of these elements is a combination ofmagnetic materials such as a permanent magnet and iron, for example, ora pair of permanent magnets.

Note that as the self-closing unit 103, a mechanism using an elasticdeformation such as a plastic, and a mechanism of a mechanical typemanufactured by a metal and a spring can be used rather than a magneticforce, but using a magnetic force is advantageous on the point that itis possible to revert to the closed state when the mold is slightlyopened. In other words, for this type of self-closing unit, becausegenerally the closing force is small in relation to the clamping forceof the clamping apparatus, there are cases in which the mold is slightlyopened due to a resin pressure in the mold. At this time, with aself-closing unit that uses a magnetic force, it becomes possible toonce again close the mold in conjunction with a reduction of resinpressure in the mold, even if the mold opens slightly. At this time, astate of adherence between the mold and the resin in the mold ismaintained, stabilizing the quality of the molded part.

For the self-closing unit 103, two pairs or more, and advantageouslyfour pairs may be installed for one of the molds 100. A pair ofself-closing units may leave open a space of between 0.1 mm and severalmm when the molds 100 are in the closed state. With this, a suddenchange in the magnetic force when transitioning from the open state tothe closed state is prevented, and it is possible to maintain a balancedclosed state.

A conveying machine 3A loads and unloads the mold 100A onto/from themolding operation position 11 of the injection molding machine 2. Aconveying machine 3B loads and unloads the mold 100B onto/from themolding operation position 11. The conveying machine 3A, the injectionmolding machine 2, and the conveying machine 3B are arranged to be linedup in that order in the X direction. In other words, the conveyingmachine 3A and the conveying machine 3B are arranged laterally withrespect to the injection molding machine 2 so as to sandwich theinjection molding machine 2 in the X direction. The conveying machines3A and 3B are arranged to face each other, and the conveying machine 3Ais arranged on one side laterally of the injection molding machine 2,and the conveying machine 3B is arranged on the other side respectivelyadjacent. The molding operation position 11 is positioned between theconveying machine 3A and the conveying machine 3B.

The conveying machines 3A and 3B respectively include a frame 30, aconveyance unit 31, a plurality of rollers 32, and a plurality ofrollers 33. The conveying machines 3A and 3B may also be carts thatconvey the molds 100 in a factory.

The frame 30 configures a skeleton of the apparatus, and supports theconveyance unit 31, and the pluralities of rollers 32 and 33. Theconveyance unit 31 is an apparatus that moves the molds 100 back andforth in the X direction, and that removes and inserts the molds 100 inrelation to the molding operation position 11.

The conveyance unit 31, in the embodiment, is an electrically drivencylinder with a motor as a driving source, and includes a rod that movesforward/backward in relation to the cylinder; the cylinder is fixed tothe frame 30, and the fixed mold 101 is fixed to the edge portion of therod. For the conveyance unit 31 both a fluid actuator and an electricactuator can be used, and by using an electric actuator, it is possibleto improve precision of control of the position or the speed whenconveying the molds 100. The fluid actuator may be an oil hydrauliccylinder, or an air cylinder, for example. The electric actuator may, inaddition to an electrically driven cylinder, be a rack-and-pinionmechanism with a motor as the driving source, a ball screw mechanismwith a motor as the driving source or the like.

In the embodiment, the conveyance unit 31 is arranged independently foreach of the conveying machines 3A and 3B. However, a common supportmember that supports the molds 100A and 100B may be used, and a singlecommon conveyance unit 31 may be arranged for this support member.However, as in the embodiment, a case where the conveyance unit 31 isarranged independently for each of the conveying machines 3A and 3B isadvantageous because it is possible to handle cases where the movementstrokes differ between the mold 100A and the mold 100B when conveying(for example, a case in which the molds cannot be conveyedsimultaneously since the widths of the mold (the width in the Xdirection) differ or the thickness of the molds (the width in the Ydirection) differ).

The plurality rollers 32 configure a row of rollers arranged in the Xdirection, and in the embodiment, two rows are configured separated inthe Y direction. The plurality of rollers 32 rotate around the axis ofrevolution in the Z direction, and guide movement in the X direction ofthe molds 100 contacting the side surfaces of the molds 100 (the sidesurfaces of the clamping plates 101 a and 102 a) and supporting themolds 100 from the side. The plurality rollers 33 configure a row ofrollers arranged in the X direction, and in the embodiment, two rows areconfigured separated in the Y direction. The plurality of rollers 33rotate around the axis of revolution in the Y direction, and causemovement in the X direction of the molds 100 to be smooth, supportingthe bottom surfaces of the molds 100 (the bottom surfaces of theclamping plates 101 a and 102 a) and supporting the molds 100 frombelow.

The control apparatus 4 includes a controller 41 for controlling theinjection molding machine 2, a controller 42A for controlling theconveying machine 3A, and a controller 42B for controlling the conveyingmachine 3B. Each of the controllers 41, 42A and 42B includes, forexample, a processor such as a CPU, a RAM, a ROM, a storage device suchas a hard disk, and interfaces connected to sensors or actuators. Theprocessor executes programs stored in the storage device. An example ofa program (control) that the controller 41 executes is explained later.The controller 41 is connected communicably with the controllers 42A and42B, and makes instructions related to the conveyance of the molds 100to the controllers 42A and 42B. The controllers 42A and 42B, if loadingand unloading of the molds 100 terminates, transmit a signal foroperation completion to the controller 41, and also transmit anemergency stop signal at a time of an abnormal occurrence to thecontroller 41.

In the embodiment, a controller is arranged for each of the injectionmolding machine 2 and the conveying machines 3A and 3B, but onecontroller may control these three apparatuses. Also, the conveyingmachine 3A and the conveying machine 3B may be controlled by a singlecontroller for more reliable and collaborative operation. At least onecontroller is arranged for the injection molding machine 2, and byarranging one controller for the conveying machines 3A and 3B, thedegree of freedom of the system is improved.

<Injection Molding Machine>

For the configuration of the injection molding machine 2, explanation isgiven with reference to FIG. 2-FIG. 4 in addition to FIG. 1. FIG. 2 is aside view of the injection molding machine 2. FIG. 3 is an end view of afixed platen 61, and a figure viewing from the arrow direction of theI-I line in FIG. 2. FIG. 4 is a partial perspective view for describingthe configuration of a periphery of the molding operation position 11.

With reference to FIG. 1 and FIG. 2, the injection molding machine 2includes an injecting apparatus 5, a clamping apparatus 6, and atake-out robot 7 for ejecting a molded part. The injecting apparatus 5and the clamping apparatus 6 are arranged on a frame 10 in the Ydirection.

The injecting apparatus 5 includes an injection cylinder 51 which isarranged to extend in the Y direction. The injection cylinder 51includes a heating device (not shown) such as a band heater, and melts aresin introduced from a hopper 53. A screw 51a is integrated into theinjection cylinder 51, and by rotation of the screw 51 a, plasticizingand measuring the resin introduced into the injection cylinder 51 areperformed, and by movement in the axial direction (Y direction) of thescrew 51 a, it is possible to inject a molten resin from an injectionnozzle 52.

As the nozzle 52, it is possible to use a shut-off nozzle capable ofopening/closing a discharge port. In FIG. 2, an example of a shut-offnozzle is illustrated. For an opening/closing mechanism 56 of the samefigure, a pin 56 a for opening/closing the discharge port 52 a isarranged. The pin 56 a is connected with an actuator (a cylinder) 56 cvia a link 56 b, and by the operation of the actuator 56 c the dischargeport 52 a is opened and closed.

The injection cylinder 51 is supported by a driving unit 54. In thedriving unit 54, a motor for plasticizing and measuring the resin byrotationally drive the screw 51 a, and a motor for driving the screw 51a to move forward/backward in the axial direction are arranged. Thedriving unit 54 can move forward/backward in the Y direction along arail 12 on the frame 10, and in the driving unit 54, an actuator (forexample, an electrically driven cylinder) 55 for causing the injectingapparatus 5 on the whole to move forward/backward in the Y direction isarranged.

The clamping apparatus 6 is an apparatus for performing a clamping andopening and closing of the molds 100, and in the embodiment is a toggletype clamping apparatus. In the clamping apparatus 6, in order in the Ydirection, the fixed platen 61, a movable platen 62, and a movableplaten 63 are arranged. Through these platens 61 to 63 a plurality (herefour) of tie-bars 64 pass. Each of the tie-bars 64 is an axis thatextends in the Y direction, one end of which is fixed to the fixedplaten 61. Each of the tie-bars 64 is inserted into a respective throughhole formed in the movable platen 62. The other end of each of thetie-bars 64 is fixed to the movable platen 63 through an adjustingmechanism 67. The movable platens 62 and 63 can move in the Y directionalong a rail 13 on the frame 10, and the fixed platen 61 is fixed to theframe 10.

A toggle mechanism 65 is arranged between the movable platen 62 and themovable platen 63. The toggle mechanism 65 causes the movable platen 62to move forward/backward in the Y direction in relation to the movableplaten 63 (in other words, in relation to the fixed platen 61). Thetoggle mechanism 65 includes links 65 a to 65 c. The link 65 a isconnected rotatably to the movable platen 62. The link 65 b is connectedpivotably to the movable platen 63. The link 65 a and the link 65 b areconnected pivotably to each other. The link 65 c and the link 65 b areconnected pivotably to each other. The link 65 c is connected pivotablyto an arm 66 c.

The arm 66 c is fixed on a ball nut 66 b. The ball nut 66 b engages aball screw shaft 66 a which extends in the Y direction, and movesforward/backward in the Y direction by rotation of the ball screw shaft66 a. The ball screw shaft 66 a is supported such that it is free torotate by the movable platen 63, and a motor 66 is supported by themovable platen 63. The motor 66 rotationally drive the ball screw shaft66 a. The amount of rotation of the motor 66 is detected by a sensor(not shown) such as a rotary encoder. By driving the motor 66, whiledetecting the amount of rotation of the motor 66, it is possible toperform clamping and opening and closing of the molds 100.

The injection molding machine 2 includes sensors 68 for measuring aclamping force. In the embodiment, each sensor 68 is a strain gaugeprovided on the tie-bar 64, and calculates a clamping force by detectinga distortion of the tie-bar 64.

The adjusting mechanism 67, nuts 67 b supported so as to freely rotateon the movable platen 63, motors 67 a as driving sources, and transfermechanisms (here belt transmission mechanisms) for transferring thedriving force of the motors 67 a to the nuts 67 b. Each of the tie-bars64 passes through a hole formed in the movable platen 63, and engageswith the nut 67 b. By causing the nuts 67 b to rotate, the engagementpositions in the Y direction between the nuts 67 b and the tie-bars 64change. That is, the position at which the movable platen 63 is fixed inrelation to the tie-bar 64 changes. With this, it is possible to cause aspace between the movable platen 63 and the fixed platen 61 to change,and thereby it is possible to adjust a clamping force or the like. Eachamount of rotation of the motor 67 a is detected by a sensor (not shown)such as a rotary encoder. By driving the motors 67 a while detecting theamount of rotation of the motors 67 a, it is possible to change theposition at which the movable platen 63 is fixed in relation to thetie-bar 64 at a higher precision according to an arbitrarily positionfrom the initial position.

The molding operation position 11 is a region between the fixed platen61 and the movable platen 62. The molds 100 introduced into the moldingoperation position 11 are sandwiched between the fixed platen 61 and themovable platen 62 and thereby clamped. Also, opening and closing inaccordance with movement of the movable mold 102 by movement of themovable platen 62 is performed.

With reference to FIG. 3, an opening portion 61 a through which thenozzle 52 moves forward/backward is formed in a central portion of thefixed platen 61. To the surface on the side of the movable platen 62(called an inner surface) of the fixed platen 61 a plurality of rollersBR are supported such that they are free to rotate. The plurality ofrollers BR rotate around the axis of revolution in the Y direction, andcause movement in the X direction of the molds 100 to be smooth,supporting the bottom surfaces (the bottom surface of the clamping plate101 a) of the molds 100 and supporting the molds 100 from below. On bothsides in the X direction of the fixed platen 61 a roller supporting body620 is fixed, and the plurality of rollers BR are supported by theroller supporting body 620.

On the inner surface of the fixed platen 61 grooves 61 b that extends inthe X direction are formed. The grooves 61 b are formed in two rowsseparated vertically. On each of the grooves 61 b a roller unit 640 isarranged. For the roller unit 640, a plurality of rollers SR aresupported such that they are free to rotate. The plurality of rollers SRrotate around the axis of revolution in the Z direction, and guidemovement in the X direction of the molds 100 contacting the outersurfaces of the molds 100 (the outer surface of the clamping plate 101a) and supporting the molds 100 from the side. As illustrated in thecross sectional view of the line II-II, while the roller unit 640, by abias of a spring 641, is positioned at a position at which the roller SRprotrudes from the groove 61 b, at a time of clamping it is retracted inthe groove 61 b, and positioned at a position at which the roller SRdoes not protrude from the groove 61 b. The roller unit 640 can preventthe inner surfaces of the molds 100 and the fixed platen 61 fromcontacting and damaging the inner surfaces at a time of alternating themolds 100, and the roller unit 640 does not impede the inner surface ofthe fixed platen 61 and the molds 100 being close at a time of clamping.

On both sides in the X direction of the fixed platen 61, a rollersupporting body 630 is fixed, and a plurality of rollers SR aresupported by the roller supporting body 630.

By these rollers BR and rollers SR, it is possible to convey the molds100 at a higher speed and more smoothly when conveying the molds 100between the injection molding machine 2 and the conveying machines 3A or3B.

On the fixed platen 61, a plurality of fixing mechanisms (clamps) 610are arranged for fixing the fixed mold 101 to the fixed platen 61. Eachclamp 610 includes an engaging portion 610 a that engages with theclamping plate 101 a, and a built-in actuator (not shown) that moves theengaging portion 610 a between an engagement position and an engagementrelease position. The actuator is a fluid actuator such as an oilpressure actuator or an air actuator. As a mechanism for fixing a mold,an electromagnetic clamp may be used. The electromagnetic clamp, bycausing current to flow in a coil can magnetize and demagnetize amagnetic material in the inside of the coil in a relatively short time,and so it becomes possible to attach/release a mold. However, a fluidactuator is advantageous in the case of frequently alternating the molds100.

In magnetization and demagnetization of the electromagnetic clamp, thereis a problem in that generally when an electric charge stored in a largecapacity condenser is momentarily caused to flow in a coil, the currentthat flows in the coil becomes very large, and the magnet and the coilgradually generate heat when repeated many times. Because the magneticforce of the magnet weakens when the temperature increases, andultimately the magnetic force is lost, a situation in which the coil andthe magnet add heat is not advantageous, and further there are cases inwhich conveyance of heat to the mold has an effect on the quality of themolded part. As a counter-measure there are methods of causing a coolingwater to flow in the electromagnetic clamps, but this is disadvantageousfrom the perspective of a power consumption amount and an installationcost. Thus, a fluid actuator is advantageous in the case of frequentlyalternating the molds 100.

Note that for the movable platen 62, similarly to the fixed platen 61, aplurality of rollers BR, the roller supporting bodies 620 and 630, theroller unit 640, and the fixing mechanism 610 for fixing the movablemold 102 are arranged.

See FIG. 4. Generally, in the periphery of the clamping apparatus asafety door is arranged for safety, and upon a mold replacement, thesafety door is opened to perform replacement work. However, in theembodiment, it is envisioned that alternation of the molds 100 isperformed frequently, and so a configuration in which a safety door isopened and closed would be inconvenient.

In the embodiment, the periphery of the clamping apparatus 6 issurrounded by a cover (exterior covering plate) 60 for safety, butopenings 60 a through which the molds 100 pass are formed on the sidesof the molding operation position 11 for alternating the molds 100. Eachopening 60 a is basically continuously open, and free removal andinsertion of the molds 100 from and to the molding operation position 11is possible. In each opening 60 a, it is possible to arrange a slidedoor that opens/closes manually, and closes off the opening 60 a. Thenduring preparation work such as replacing the molds 100 with anothermold, the opening 60 a may be closed by the slide door.

Also, in FIG. 4, an example of an outer appearance of the conveyingmachine 3B is illustrated. A safety door may be arranged on the frame30, and the inside and outside of the frame 30 may be isolated. In theexample of FIG. 4, the controller 42B is arranged on the lower portionof the conveying machine 3B, but the location at which each controlleris arranged may be anywhere.

Returning to FIG. 2, the take-out robot 7 is explained. For ejection ofa molded part, it is possible to employ a method in which a mold ejectorpin is driven to automatically drop the molded part, or manual ejectionby a worker, but in the embodiment, a mechanism in which the molded partis taken out from the opened movable mold 102 is assumed.

The take-out robot 7 includes a rail 71 that extends in the X direction,and a movable rail 72 which can move in the X direction on the rail 71.The movable rail 72 is arranged to extend in the Y direction, and aslider 73 is arranged on the movable rail 72. The slider 73 has afunction for moving in the Y direction guided by the movable rail 72,and also has a function of moving up and down an elevating shaft 73 a inthe Z direction.

On a lower end of the elevating shaft 73 a an vacuum head 74 isarranged, and on the vacuum head 74, a chuck plate 75 specialized to amolded part is mounted.

The take-out robot 7, after opening, moves the vacuum head 74 betweenthe fixed mold 101 and the movable mold 102 as illustrated by brokenlines in FIG. 2 by the rail 71, the movable rail 7, and the slider 73,sticks to the molded part, and conveys it to the exterior. Note that inthe embodiment, a vacuum type take-out robot is exemplified as thetake-out robot 7, but it is possible to employ a take-out robot of atype that grips the molded part mechanically.

<Molded Part Manufacturing Example>

Explanation is given for an example of operation of the injectionmolding system 1. FIG. 5 is a flowchart for describing an example ofprocessing that the controller 41 executes. FIG. 6 to FIG. 11 are viewsfor describing examples of operation of the injection molding system 1.Each step in the processing example of FIG. 5 is explained withreference to respective states in FIG. 6 to FIG. 11. In the followingexample, a case in which a molding operation is performed whilealternating the molds 100A and 100B as in molding using the mold100A—molding using the mold 100B—molding using the mold 100A . . . isenvisioned.

An initial setting is performed in step S1 of FIG. 5. Here, for each ofthe metallic molds 100A and 100B, operation conditions of the injectingapparatus 5 and the clamping apparatus 6 are registered. For example,these are the amount of resin that is injected in one time, thetemperature, the injection speed, the clamping force, the initial valueof the position of the movable platen 63 in relation to the tie-bars 64,and the like. These conditions may differ even when the mold 100A andthe mold 100B are the same. Because the mold 100A is used for the firstmolding operation, firstly, the conditions related to the mold 100A areautomatically set as operation conditions. Also, heating of theinjection cylinder 51 and plasticizing and measuring of the resin andthe like for the first time is started.

In step S2 of FIG. 5, the mold 100A is conveyed into the injectionmolding machine 2. FIG. 6 illustrates this operation. Firstly, the motor66 is driven to cause the space between the fixed platen 61 and themovable platen 62 to become slightly wider than the thickness of themold 100A (the width in the Y direction) as illustrated in the stateST1. Next, the controller 41 transmits an instruction to load the mold100A to the controller 42A, and the controller 42A drives the conveyanceunit 31 to load the mold 100A into the molding operation position 11.When loading completes, a signal indicating load completion istransmitted from the controller 42A to the controller 41. When thesignal indicating load completion is received, the motor 66 is driven tocause the fixed platen 61 and the movable platen 62 to closely contactwith the mold 100A. At this time, it is not necessary to cause aclamping force as is caused to occur during molding to occur. Also, themold 100A is locked to each of the fixed platen 61 and the movableplaten 62 by driving the fixing mechanisms 610.

In step S3 of FIG. 5, clamping of the mold 100A by the fixed platen 61and the movable platen 62 is performed by driving the motor 66 to drivethe toggle mechanism 65. In step S4 of FIG. 5, preparation for injectionin relation to the mold 100 is performed. Here, the actuator 55 isdriven to move the injecting apparatus 5, causing the nozzle 52 to touchthe mold 100A. The state ST3 of FIG. 7 illustrates these operations.

In step S5 of FIG. 5, injection and dwelling of molten resin isperformed. In detail, the injecting apparatus 5 is driven to fill moltenresin into a cavity in the mold 100A from the nozzle 52, and furthermoreto press the resin in the cylinder 51 into the mold 100A at a highpressure in order to compensate for a volume decrease due to resinsolidifying. Upon the processing of step S5, the actual clamping forceis measured by the sensor 68. During molding, the mold 100A thermallyexpands due to the temperature of the mold 100A gradually rising, andthere are cases where a difference arises in the initial clamping forceand the clamping force after some time has passed. Accordingly, it ispossible to correct the clamping force at the time of the next clampingbased on a result of measurement by the sensors 68. The adjustment ofthe clamping force is performed by an adjustment of the position of themovable platen 63 in relation to the tie-bar 64 by driving the motor 67.In this way, it is possible to enhance precision of the clamping forceby adjusting the clamping force by correcting the initial value of theposition of the movable platen 63 in relation to the tie-bars 64 inaccordance with the result of measurement by the sensors 68. Theadjustment of the position of the movable platen 63 in relation to thetie-bars 64 may be performed at any timing (for example, at the timingof any of step S7, step S9, step S13-step S15 or the like in theflowchart of FIG. 5).

Next, the processing of step S6 to step S8 of FIG. 5 is performed inparallel. In step S6 of FIG. 5, timing of the time for cooling themolded part in the mold 100A is started. In step S7, processing relatedto the clamping apparatus 6 is performed. Firstly, locking of the mold100A by the fixing mechanism 610 is released. Also, after a delay of apredetermined time from step S5, the motor 66 is driven to drive thetoggle mechanism 65. With this, the clamping force vanishes, and themovable platen 62 is caused to separate slightly in relation to thefixed platen 61, and a space by which it is possible to alternate themolds is formed. The state ST4 of FIG. 7 illustrates a state in whichthe movable platen 62 is caused to separate slightly in relation to thefixed platen 61.

In step S8 of FIG. 5, processing related to the injecting apparatus 5 isperformed. Here, for example, a dwelling suck back, a nozzle shut-off, aretraction of the injecting apparatus 5, a start of measurement ofplasticization for the next injection or the like are performed. Thestate ST4 of FIG. 7 illustrates a state in which the injecting apparatus5 is retracted (a state in which the nozzle 52 is retracted).

The dwelling suck back and the nozzle shut-off are for preventing themolten resin from dripping when the nozzle 52 separates from the mold100A. These processes can be performed during a delay time prior tocausing the movable platen 62 to separate slightly in relation to thefixed platen 61 in step S7. The dwelling suck back is for reducing aresin pressure in the injection cylinder 51 and in the molds 100 whenafter the dwelling the screw 51 a is caused to retract. The position towhich the screw 51 a is retracted in the dwelling suck back may bemanaged as an absolute position, and may be managed as a relativeposition in relation to a position of the screw 51 a after dwellingcompletion. Also, the screw 51 a may be caused to retract until it isdetected that the resin pressure that a load cell (not shown) installedin the injecting apparatus 5 measures is reduced to a predeterminedpressure. The nozzle shut-off is a closing of the discharge port 52 a ofthe nozzle 52, and in the example of FIG. 2, closes the discharge port52 a by the pin 56 a. By this kind of operation, it is possible tosuppress leaking of resin. Also, it is possible to improve the precisionof the measuring of the resin for the next injection. Note that by theforegoing processing, it is possible to prevent the resin from leaking,but since there are cases where long threadlike resin is generatedbetween the mold 100 and the nozzle 52 due to the structure of the moldor the type of resin, an apparatus for shooting air into the nozzle 52may be installed to prevent this.

In step S9 of FIG. 5, alternation of the molds 100 is performed. Thestate ST5 of FIG. 8 illustrates a state in which the molds 100 arealternated. Here, the mold 100A is unloaded from the molding operationposition 11 to the conveying machine 3A, and the mold 100B is loadedfrom the conveying machine 3B to the molding operation position 11. Thecontroller 41 transmits an instruction to unload the mold 100A to thecontroller 42A, and the controller 42A drives the conveyance unit 31 tounload the mold 100A from the molding operation position 11. Whenunloading completes, a signal indicating unload completion istransmitted from the controller 42A to the controller 41. The mold 100Ais cooled on the conveying machine 3A. At this time, by the operation ofthe self-closing unit 103 the closed state of the mold 100A ismaintained.

After unloading the mold 100A, or in parallel to the unloading, thecontroller 41 transmits an instruction to load the mold 100B to thecontroller 42B, and the controller 42B drives the conveyance unit 31 toload the mold 100B into the molding operation position 11. When loadingcompletes, a signal indicating load completion is transmitted from thecontroller 42B to the controller 41.

When the signal indicating loading completion is received, conditionsregarding the mold 100B are set as the operation conditions of themolding operation in step S10 of FIG. 5. For example, the thickness ofthe mold 100B (the width of the Y direction), the clamping force and thelike are set as the operation conditions of the molding operation forthis time. Also, molding conditions such as an injection speed or thelike corresponding to the mold 100B is set. Furthermore, the motor 66 isdriven to cause the fixed platen 61 and the movable platen 62 to closelycontact with the mold 100B. At this time, it is not necessary to cause aclamping force as is caused to occur during molding to occur. Also, themold 100B is locked to each of the fixed platen 61 and the movableplaten 62 by driving the fixing mechanism 610.

Note that after step S9 in the embodiment, step S10 is performed, butbecause there are times where time is required for switching of themolding conditions, configuration may also be taken such that to switchthe molding conditions simultaneously to the instruction to unload themold 100A, for example.

In step S11, it is determined whether or not it is the first moldingoperation in relation to the molds 100A and 100B. In the case of thefirst molding operation, the process returns to step S3, and in the caseor the second molding operation or greater, the process proceeds to stepS12. In the flow explained above, it is the first molding operation, theprocess returns to step S3, and the processing of step S3 to step S8 isexecuted for the mold 100B. The state ST6 of FIG. 8 indicates the stateof the processes of step S3 and step S4 for the mold 100B, and the stateST7 of FIG. 9 indicates the state of the processes of step S7 and stepS8 for the mold 100B.

When the processing of step S3 to step S8 is executed for the mold 100B,the mold 100B is unloaded in step S9, and loading of the mold 100A isperformed. The state ST8 of FIG. 9 indicates a state in which the mold100B is unloaded, and the mold 100A is loaded. The mold 100B is cooledon the conveying machine 3B. In the determination of step S11, it isdetermined that it is not the first time, and the process proceeds tostep S12.

In step S12, it is determined whether or not the cooling of the mold100A completed based on whether or not the cooling time whose timing wasstarted in step S6 has reached a predetermined time. In the case thatthe cooling completed, the processing of step S13 to step S16 and theprocessing of step S14 are performed in parallel.

In step S13, the movable platen 62 is separated from the fixed platen 61by driving the motor 66. The fixed mold 101 is fixed to the fixed platen61 by the fixing mechanisms 610, and the movable mold 102 is fixed tothe movable platen 62 by the fixing mechanisms 610, and therefore themovable mold 102 separates from the fixed mold 101 and the mold 100A isopened against the magnetic force of the self-closing unit 103. Themolded part remaining on the side of the movable mold 102 of the mold100A is taken out by driving the take-out robot 7 in step S15, andconveyed to the exterior. The state ST9 of FIG. 10 illustratesoperations for opening the mold 100A, and ejecting the molded part P.The vacuum head 74 is moved to a position at which the chuck plate 75faces the molded part P, and the molded part P is held by suction.

In step S14, preparation for the next injection operation in relation tothe mold 100A is performed. This is the same process as in step S4. Instep S16, clamping of the mold 100A is performed. The state ST10 of FIG.10 illustrates a state in which the mold 100A is clamped. After that,the process returns to step S5, and the same processing is repeated; theprocessing proceeds to injection/dwelling for the mold 100A—alternatingthe molds 100 (unloading of the mold 100A and loading of the mold100B)—ejecting the molded part of the mold 100B. The state ST11 of FIG.11 indicates a state of alternating the molds 100, and the state ST12 ofFIG. 11 indicates a state of ejecting the molded part P from the mold100B. After this, returning to the state ST5 of FIG. 8, the states ST5to ST12 are repeated.

As described above, in the embodiment, cooling of the molds 100 isperformed on the conveying machines 3A or 3B outside of the injectionmolding machine 2. Also, during cooling of one of the molds 100, eachprocess of molded part ejection—clamping—injection/dwelling is performedby the injection molding machine 2 for the other of the molds 100.Because opening and molded part ejection are performed by the injectionmolding machine 2, the conveying machines 3A and 3B need not have afunction for opening and a function for molded part ejection.Accordingly, it is possible to manufacture the molded part P whilealternating the plurality of the molds 100A and 100B by the oneinjection molding machine 2 while suppressing cost of the systemincreases.

In particular, if the time required for all processes from the start ofthe mold replacement process, to the other mold ejecting process,injection process, and dwelling process, and up until completion of themold replacement process once again fits into the time required forcooling one of the molds 100, then productivity compared to normalmolding is improved by a maximum of two times. That is, in addition tosuppressing cost increases, there is the merit that it is possible torealize high productivity.

Note that to realize twice the productivity, it is sufficient that thecooling time of the molds 100 cover 50% or more of the total moldingprocess (the time for one molding cycle), but this depends on the timefor the mold replacement process. Many molded parts used for exteriorcovering parts or electromechanical parts such as for automobiles, homeelectric appliances, office devices or the like, have a thickness ofseveral millimeters to ensure strength. Accordingly, during the totalmolding process, the cooling process covers the longest time, and it isnot uncommon for the time to cool the molds 100 to reach from 50% to 70%in relation to the time for one molding cycle. Accordingly, theforegoing embodiment is particularly effective in improving productivityof this type of molded part. The productivity can be particularlyimproved if the time for the molding cycle of the mold 100A and the timefor the molding cycle of the mold 100B are about the same, and the timefor cooling the molds 100 in relation to the time for one molding cycleis 50% or more.

Also, even if the thickness of the molded part is approximately 1 mm andis comparatively thin, there is the tendency for the cooling process tobecome longer in cases of parts for which high dimensional precision isrequired, or molded parts that use a resin for which a high temperatureis required as a mold temperature, or a crystalline resin for whichcooling is time consuming. In the foregoing embodiment, it is possibleto realize close to two times the productivity in a wide range of moldedparts.

Even if the time to cool the molds 100 is less than 50% of the time forone molding cycle, effective application of the time for cooling enablesthe realization of 1.5 times or 1.8 times higher productivity inrelation to normal molding. Furthermore, by virtue of the foregoingembodiment, there is the effect that the installation space and thepower consumption amount are reduced because it is possible to achievethe productivity of two injection molding machines by the conventionalmanufacturing method in the one injection molding machine 2.

Second Embodiment

The mold 100A and the mold 100B may be molds for molding the same moldedpart, or may be molds for molding different molded parts. Irrespectiveof whether or not the molded parts to be molded are the same, there arecases in which between the mold 100A and the mold 100B the thickness andclamping force in the Y direction differs, but in the embodiment, it ispossible to change the position at which to fix the movable platen 63 inrelation to the tie-bars 64 by the adjusting mechanisms 67, and asetting change (step S10 of FIG. 5) is performed after alternating themolds (step S9 of FIG. 5), and therefore it is possible to set clampingto correspond to each mold.

If the mold 100A and the mold 100B are molds for molding differentmolded parts, there are cases in which it is necessary to replace thechuck plate 75 with something that corresponds to the type of the moldedpart. However, when the chuck plate 75 is replaced, time is requiredregardless of whether it is done manually or automatically.

Accordingly, a chuck plate 75 which has holding portions correspondingto each of the differing molded parts may be used, and the chuck plate75 may be caused to be displaced to cause the molded part to face theholding portion corresponding to the molded part in accordance with themold 100 from which the molded part is ejected. FIG. 12 exemplifies twoexamples thereof.

EX1 of FIG. 12 indicates an example of the chuck plate 75. The chuckplate 75 includes a holding portion 75A and a holding portion 75B. Thevacuum head 74 can cause the chuck plate 75 to rotate around an axis 74a, and can cause the chuck plate 75 to be displaced so that thepositions of the holding portion 75A and the holding portion 75B change.With this, it is possible to switch the holding portion facing themolded part, and it is possible to handle different molded parts in ashort time without replacing the chuck plate 75.

EX2 of FIG. 12 indicates another example of the chuck plate 75. Thechuck plate 75 includes a holding portion 75A and a holding portion 75B.The vacuum head 74 includes a rail 74 b and a slider 74 c that movesalong the rail 74 b, and the chuck plate 75 is arranged on the slider 74c. By moving the slider 74 c it is possible to cause the chuck plate 75to be displaced to change the positions of the holding portion 75A andthe holding portion 75B. With this, it is possible to switch the holdingportion facing the molded part, and it is possible to handle differentmolded parts in a short time without replacing the chuck plate 75.

Note that it is possible to perform a change of an operation setting ofthe take-out robot 7 including this kind of displacement of the chuckplate in processing of step S10 of FIG. 5.

Third Embodiment

In the first embodiment, an example in which two molds 100A and 100B arealternated is explained, but three or more molds may be alternated. Forexample, a case in which three molds 100A-100C are alternated isexplained. The mold 100A is loaded into the injection molding machine 2,and molded part ejection, clamping, and injection/dwelling is performed.The mold 100A is unloaded, the mold 100B is loaded into the injectionmolding machine 2, and molded part ejection, clamping, andinjection/dwelling is performed. The mold 100B is unloaded, the mold100C is loaded into the injection molding machine 2, and molded partejection, clamping, and injection/dwelling is performed. The mold 100Cis unloaded, the mold 100A is loaded into the injection molding machine2, and molded part ejection, clamping, and injection/dwelling isperformed. Thereafter, the same procedure is repeated. It is possible toemploy as a conveyance apparatus of the three molds 100A-100C anapparatus that lines them up in the X direction and supports them by acommon supporting body, and that includes an actuator for moving thesupporting body in the X direction. In this example configuration, whenthe mold 100C is unloaded, and the mold 100A is loaded, the mold 100Bpasses inside the injection molding machine 2 temporarily.

Fourth Embodiment

It is possible to realize higher productivity by performing unloadingand loading of the molds 100 in a shorter time. For this, employing ahigher output unit as the conveyance unit 31 can be considered, but thisbecomes a cause of a cost increase. Accordingly, a balancer apparatusthat supports movement of the molds 100 using gravity on weights may bearranged.

FIG. 13 illustrates an example of this. The state ST21 indicates a casein which the molds 100A and 100B are respectively positioned on theconveying machines 3A and 3B, and the state ST22 indicates a state inwhich the mold 100B is loaded onto the molding operation position 11.

A balancer apparatus 8 is arranged for each of two molds 100. Thebalancer apparatus 8 includes weights Wa and Wb, connecting members 81 aand 81 b, a plurality of rotation members 82, and a stopper 83. Theconnecting members 81 a and 81 b are line components such as chains orwires. The connecting member 81 a connects the mold 100A and the weightWa, and a connecting member 81 b connects the mold 100B and the weightWb. The rotation members 82 are components that are free to rotate andthat support the connecting members 81 a and 81 b, and are, for example,rollers, sprockets, pulleys or movable pulleys. The stopper 83 defines alower limit position of the weights Wa and Wb. The stopper 83 isarranged to stop the dropping of the weights Wa and Wb if the molds 100reach an intermediate position between the molding operation position 11and a position on the conveying machines 3A or 3B. The movement amountof the weights Wa and Wb (lowering amount) is half of the movementstroke of the molds 100 or less.

If the molds 100 are positioned on the conveying machines 3A or 3B or inthe molding operation position 11, it is possible to stop the molds 100by a brake mechanism of a servo motor of the conveyance unit 31. Uponloading or unloading of the molds 100, the brake mechanism is released.Then, the weight Wa or Wb drops, and movement of the mold 100accelerates.

When the weight Wa or Wb reaches the stopper 83 in the middle ofmovement of the mold 100, then the mold 100 is made to be pulled, andthe weight Wa or Wb is shifted to rise, which has the function ofdecelerating the mold 100. Accordingly, it is possible to reduce thedriving force necessary for the conveyance unit 31 to cause the mold 100to move.

A concrete example is explained. In FIG. 13, from the state ST21, thebrake of the servo motor of the conveyance unit 31 of the conveyingmachine 3B is released. Then, the weight Wb is dropped from the initialposition, and the mold 100B accelerates towards the molding operationposition 11. When the weight Wb reaches the stopper 83 in the middle ofmovement of the mold 100B, then the mold 100 is made to be pulled, andthe weight Wb is shifted to rise, which has the function of deceleratingthe mold 100. Then, when the mold 100B reaches the molding operationposition 11, the brake of the servo motor of the conveyance unit 31 ofthe conveying machine 3B locks. With this, the mold 100B stops at themolding operation position 11. The weight Wb returns to the initialposition or to a position close to the initial position.

The case where the mold 100B is unloaded from the molding operationposition 11 to the conveying machine 3B is similar. The conveyance unit31 can use gravity on the weight Wb at the stage of acceleration whenmovement of the mold 100B is started, and at the stage of deceleratingwhen movement is stopped, and the driving force that is necessary can bereduced.

There are cases where a large load is produced on the connecting members81 a and 81 b when the weights Wa and Wb reach the stopper 83, and areshifted from lowering to rising. In order to prevent breakage of theconnecting members 81 a and 81 b or the plurality of rotation members 82by this, a shock absorbing member (not shown) such as a damper, a springor the like may be installed between the weights Wa and Wb and thestopper 83.

Fifth Embodiment

In the first embodiment, explanation is given of an example in which oneinjecting apparatus 5 is installed in the injection molding machine 2,but an injection molding machine 2 that has two or more of the injectingapparatus 5 may be used. In this method, it is not necessary to performa change in the molding conditions in relation to the respectiveinjecting apparatuses 5, and it is further possible to mold usingmaterials of different types in the plurality of molds.

Sixth Embodiment

In the first embodiment, a generic injection molding method consistingof injection, dwelling, cooling, and ejecting processes for the molds100 is applied, but publicly known molding techniques such as bubblemolding, gas-assisted molding, heating and cooling molding for at leastone mold may also be combined. Generally, such molding methods have along cooling time, and therefore molding by combining these with thefirst embodiment is advantageous in that it causes productivity toimprove.

Seventh Embodiment

During molding cycles, a temperature controller may be always connectedto the mold 100 through a duct. The temperature controller controls thetemperature of the mold 100 by, for example, circulating a fluid such asa cooling water through the mold 100 and the temperature controller. Thetemperature controller may be provided commonly for the mold 100A andthe mold 100B, and the temperature controller may be provided for eachmold, respectively. When the temperature controller is provided for eachmold, respectively, each temperature of the molds 100A and 100B can beindividually controlled.

Electric wires may be always connected to the mold during moldingcycles. The electric wires may include wires for supplying electricpower to a hot runner and the like and wires for transmitting signalsfrom sensors such as a thermocouple, a limit switch and the like.

This application claims the benefit of Vietnamese Patent Application No.1-2016-02505, filed Jul. 7, 2016 which is hereby incorporated byreference herein in its entirety.

1.-13. (canceled)
 14. An injection molding system comprising: aninjection molding machine which includes an injection nozzle forinjecting a material into a first or second mold on a molding operationposition of the injection molding machine, and includes a mechanism foropening and closing the first or second mold on the molding operationposition of the injection molding machine; a first conveying machineconfigured to convey the first mold on the first conveying machine ontothe molding operation position of the injection molding machine; asecond conveying machine configured to convey the second mold on thesecond conveying machine onto the molding operation position of theinjection molding machine.
 15. The injection molding system according toclaim 14, wherein the first conveying machine is configured to conveythe first mold in a first horizontal direction, and wherein the secondconveying machine is configured to convey the second mold in a secondhorizontal direction.
 16. The injection molding system according toclaim 15, wherein the injection nozzle is configured to move in a thirdhorizontal direction orthogonal to the first and second horizontaldirections.
 17. The injection molding system according to claim 15,wherein the mechanism includes a movable platen to which the first orsecond mold is fixed, wherein the movable platen is configured to movein a fourth horizontal direction orthogonal to the first and secondhorizontal directions.
 18. The injection molding system according toclaim 15, wherein the first and second conveying machine are arranged sothat a first distance between the first mold on the molding operationposition of the injection molding machine and the second mold on thesecond conveying machine, and a second distance between the first moldon the first conveying machine and the second mold on the operationposition of the injection molding machine are less than a third distancebetween the first mold on the first conveying machine and the secondmold on the second conveying machine.
 19. The injection molding systemaccording to claim 14, further comprising a control apparatus configuredto control the first conveying machine and the second conveying machine.20. The injection molding system according to claim 19, wherein thefirst and second conveying machine are controlled by the controlapparatus so that the first mold and the second mold are conveyedsimultaneously.
 21. The injection molding system according to claim 19,wherein the first and second conveying machine are controlled by thecontrol apparatus so that the first mold and the second mold areconveyed not simultaneously.
 22. The injection molding system accordingto claim 14, wherein the injection molding machine is configured toeject a first molded part form the first mold on the molding operationposition and to eject a second molded part form the second mold on themolding operation position.
 23. The injection molding system accordingto claim 14, wherein the first conveying machine and the secondconveying machine are arranged laterally with respect to the injectionmolding machine.
 24. The injection molding system according to claim 14,wherein the first conveying machine includes a first actuator that movesthe first mold, wherein the second conveying machine includes a secondactuator that moves the second mold, and wherein the system isconfigured to arranged the first mold and the second mold between thefirst actuator and the second actuator.
 25. The injection molding systemaccording to claim 14, wherein the first conveying machine includes afirst plurality of rollers, wherein the second conveying machineincludes a second plurality of rollers, wherein the injection moldingmachine includes a third plurality of rollers, wherein the first mold isconveyed on and contacts with the first plurality of rollers, and isconveyed on and contacts with the third plurality of rollers, andwherein the second mold is conveyed on and contacts with the secondplurality of rollers, and is conveyed on and contacts with the thirdplurality of rollers.
 26. The injection molding system according toclaim 14, wherein the first conveying machine includes a first rollerand a second roller separated from the first roller in a directionorthogonal to a conveying direction of the first conveying machine, andthe first conveying machine is configured to convey the first moldbetween the first roller and the second roller, and wherein the secondconveying machine includes a third roller and a fourth roller separatedfrom the third roller in a direction orthogonal to a conveying directionof the second conveying machine, and the second conveying machine isconfigured to convey the second mold between the third roller and thefourth roller.
 27. The injection molding system according to claim 14,further comprising a robot including a first holding portion for takingout a molded part from the first mold, and a second holding portion fortaking out a molded part from the second mold.
 28. The injection moldingsystem according to claim 14, wherein each of a fixed platen and amovable platen in the injection molding machine is provided with afixing mechanism which locks the first or second mold to the fixedplaten and the movable platen and releases the first or second mold fromthe fixed platen and the movable platen, and wherein the movable platenis configured to move in a fourth horizontal direction orthogonal to thefirst and second horizontal directions.
 29. The injection molding systemaccording to claim 14, wherein a mechanism includes a fixed platen and amovable platen, and the molding operation position is a region betweenthe fixed platen and the movable platen, wherein the first mold or thesecond mold on the molding operation position is sandwiched between thefixed platen and the movable platen.
 30. The injection molding systemaccording to claim 14, each of the first conveying machine and thesecond conveying machine includes a fluid actuator.
 31. The injectionmolding system according to claim 14, each of the first conveyingmachine and the second conveying machine includes an electric actuator.32. The injection molding system according to claim 14, wherein each ofthe first mold and the second mold has a self-closing unit.
 33. Theinjection molding system according to claim 14, wherein the injectionmolding machine is a horizontal type injection molding machine.